Goddess Athena offered Greece the gift of the olive tree. Believing that olive oil was essential, they began using it for everything. Since then, we have utilized its nutrients both internally and externally for a variety of health benefits. However, there is a hidden risk of using olive oil by itself topically, which I will discuss below.

Olive oil is a natural emollient that effectively dissolves and removes dirt, makeup, and impurities from the skin. Its molecular structure allows it to penetrate deeply into the pores, loosening debris and facilitating their removal. Olive oil is abundant in antioxidants, such as hydroxytyrosol, vitamin E, and polyphenols. These antioxidants help protect the skin against free radicals, promoting a more youthful and radiant complexion.

There is no denying that olive oil has numerous skin benefits. However, while it is nourishing for many skin types, it can also break down the skin barrier if used improperly, excessively, or on its own. This is because olive oil is high in oleic acid, which can disrupt the skin's natural lipid barrier when overused. For some people, this may lead to issues like increased dryness, irritation, or a weakened barrier, especially in those with sensitive or compromised skin.

To prevent this, we recommend not using olive oil on its own or if you do, use it in moderation and ideally in a balanced formulation with ingredients that support and strengthen the skin barrier. This way you can reap the benefits of olive oil without the negative side effects. Using it alone can create a vicious cycle similar to that of the Chapstick business model, never actually being able to retain moisture and needing more and more product overtime....perhaps that is the plan?

According to a recent study via PubMed, "Topical application of olive oil for 4 weeks caused a significant reduction in stratum corneum integrity and induced mild erythema in volunteers with and without a history of atopic dermatitis. Topical treatment with olive oil significantly damages the skin barrier, and therefore has the potential to promote the development of, and exacerbate existing, atopic dermatitis."

This is why we use olive oil in a responsible way, as it was intended: as a cleanser and full-body moisturizer in incredibly effective, formulated organic blends that balance its effects with other skin-supporting ingredients.

Our superior olive oil is of single-source origin, organic, and cold-pressed, with squalene-rich antioxidant properties, including hydroxytyrosol, to boost the skin’s collagen and elastin production and increase thickness, elasticity, firmness, softness, and smoothness.

Using oils with a higher linoleic acid content (such as rosehip, pomegranate, and sea buckthorn oils) in properly balanced formulations helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier, reduce inflammation, and retain moisture, particularly for those with oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin.

Explore our two products that expertly harness the natural power of Olive Oil.